Living as Resurrection People: Hope, Generosity, and Love
Summary
We live in the ongoing season of resurrection hope, not just as a memory of a past event, but as a present reality that shapes every day of our lives. The resurrection of Jesus is not a story we revisit once a year; it is the foundation of our identity as resurrection people. The New Testament is filled with eyewitnesses—over 500—who encountered the risen Christ, and their lives were transformed. These first followers, once fearful and uncertain, became bold witnesses, proclaiming the good news even when it cost them dearly. Their testimony is not just history; it is an invitation for us to live with the same hope and courage.
As we look to the book of Acts, we see how the early church embodied this resurrection life. They were marked by radical generosity, holding their possessions loosely and sharing with anyone in need. Their unity and selflessness were not the result of ideology or compulsion, but a natural outflow of knowing how much they had received in Christ. They understood that everything they had was temporary, and so they leveraged their resources for what is eternal—people and the proclamation of Jesus.
But the early church was also a suffering church. Proclaiming the resurrection brought them into conflict with the authorities, and many paid a steep price. Yet, even in persecution, they rejoiced, counting it an honor to suffer for the name of Jesus. Their willingness to endure hardship was rooted in the certainty of the resurrection and the promise that Jesus had overcome the world. Their faith was not in their own strength, but in the power of the Holy Spirit working through them.
We find ourselves in a world that, in many ways, resembles the first centuries of the church more than the recent past. The church may not have the favored status or influence it once did, but the mission remains unchanged. We are called to love one another as Christ has loved us, to be known by our love, and to proclaim the hope of the resurrection wherever God has placed us. The challenges we face are not signs of defeat, but opportunities to be renewed in our calling as resurrection people, empowered by the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead.
Key Takeaways
- Resurrection hope is not just a future promise but a present reality that transforms daily life. The certainty that Jesus is alive empowers us to live with courage, purpose, and joy, even in the midst of ordinary routines and challenges. This hope is the anchor for our identity and mission in the world. [02:43]
- The early church’s radical generosity flowed from their understanding that all they possessed was temporary and entrusted to them by God. They held their resources loosely, using them to meet the needs of others and to advance the eternal purposes of Christ. True generosity is not about abundance, but about stewardship and a heart captivated by Jesus. [10:12]
- Suffering for the sake of Christ is not a sign of failure, but a mark of faithfulness and participation in the life of Jesus. The apostles rejoiced in their suffering, recognizing it as a privilege to be identified with Christ and to bear witness to His resurrection. Enduring hardship for the gospel refines and strengthens the church, drawing us closer to the heart of God. [15:26]
- The church’s influence is not dependent on cultural power, privilege, or prestige, but on the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. Even when marginalized or opposed, the church can thrive and transform the world by faithfully proclaiming the resurrection and loving one another deeply. Our calling is to resist complacency and to trust that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness. [21:10]
- The distinguishing mark of Jesus’ followers is their love for one another, a love modeled after Christ’s own sacrificial love. This love is not merely sentiment, but is demonstrated in practical care, unity, and a willingness to serve and forgive. It is by this love that the world will know we belong to Jesus, and it is through this love that the hope of the resurrection is made visible. [22:34]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:35] - Resurrection Hope: A Daily Reality
[02:43] - Eyewitnesses and the Ongoing Work of Jesus
[05:48] - Learning from the Early Church
[08:30] - Radical Generosity in Action
[10:12] - Stewardship of Temporary Things
[11:21] - The Church Under Persecution
[12:11] - Boldness Before the Sanhedrin
[13:27] - Gamaliel’s Counsel and Apostolic Suffering
[14:55] - Rejoicing in Suffering
[16:25] - Martyrdom and the Cost of Witness
[17:26] - Tertullian and the Power of Persecution
[19:41] - The Church’s Mission in a Hostile World
[21:10] - The Spirit’s Power in Weakness
[22:34] - The Mark of Love
[23:13] - Lessons for Today’s Church
[24:54] - Living as Resurrection People Today
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Living as Resurrection People
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### Bible Reading
- Acts 4:32-35
Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.
- Acts 5:27-42
(Especially verses 29, 41-42)
But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men...”. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.
- John 13:34-35
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Acts 4:32-35, what was the attitude of the early believers toward their possessions? What did they do with their resources?
2. In Acts 5:29, how did Peter and the apostles respond when told to stop speaking about Jesus?
3. What was the reaction of the apostles after they were beaten for proclaiming Jesus, as described in Acts 5:41?
4. According to John 13:34-35, what is the distinguishing mark of Jesus’ followers? How is this shown in the early church? [22:34]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The early church’s generosity was not forced by rules or government, but came from their understanding of what they had received in Christ. Why do you think knowing Jesus personally led them to hold their possessions loosely? [10:12]
2. The apostles rejoiced after suffering for Jesus’ name. What does this tell us about their view of suffering and its connection to the resurrection? [15:26]
3. The sermon mentions that the church’s influence does not depend on cultural power or privilege, but on the Holy Spirit’s presence. How might this change the way we think about the church’s role in society today? [21:10]
4. Jesus said the world would know his disciples by their love for one another. Why is this kind of love so important for showing the hope of the resurrection to others? [22:34]
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### Application Questions
1. The resurrection is described as a present reality, not just a past event. In what ways does the resurrection shape your daily life right now? Are there routines or challenges where you need to remember this hope? [02:43]
2. The early church was marked by radical generosity. Is there something you own or hold onto tightly that God might be inviting you to use for his purposes or to help someone in need? What would it look like to “hold your resources loosely” this week? [10:12]
3. The apostles rejoiced in suffering for Jesus. Have you ever faced pushback, discomfort, or loss because of your faith? How did you respond, and what might it look like to “rejoice” in those moments? [15:26]
4. The sermon says the church’s mission hasn’t changed, even if its status in society has. Where has God placed you (work, school, neighborhood) to be a witness to resurrection hope? What is one way you can share or show that hope this week? [24:54]
5. Jesus said his followers would be known by their love. Is there someone in your church or life who is hard for you to love right now? What is one practical step you can take to show Christ-like love to them? [22:34]
6. The early church faced both internal and external challenges. When you face conflict or hardship, do you tend to withdraw, complain, or lean into God’s power? What would it look like to trust the Holy Spirit’s strength in your weakness? [21:10]
7. The sermon challenges us to resist complacency. Is there an area of your faith where you have become comfortable or passive? What is one step you can take this week to be “renewed in your calling as resurrection people”? [24:54]
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Devotional
Day 1: Resurrection Hope as a Transforming Daily Reality
The resurrection of Jesus is not merely a historical event to be remembered once a year but a living reality that shapes every moment of life. This hope anchors identity and mission, empowering believers to face daily challenges with courage, purpose, and joy. Knowing that Jesus is alive changes how one approaches ordinary routines, infusing them with meaning and resilience. It is this certainty that fuels boldness and perseverance, even when circumstances seem mundane or difficult.
Living in resurrection hope means embracing a present power that sustains faith and inspires action, not just waiting for a future promise to be fulfilled. This hope is the foundation for a life marked by confidence in God’s ongoing work and presence. [02:43]
Romans 6:4 (ESV)
"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you invite the reality of Jesus’ resurrection to influence your attitude and decisions today, especially in moments that feel routine or challenging?
Day 2: Stewardship Rooted in Temporary Possessions
The early church’s radical generosity was born from a deep understanding that all material possessions are temporary and entrusted by God. This perspective freed them to hold their resources loosely, using what they had to meet the needs of others and to advance the eternal purposes of Christ. True generosity is not about how much one has but about a heart captivated by Jesus and a willingness to steward resources for God’s kingdom.
This kind of generosity flows naturally from gratitude and recognition of God’s provision, rather than obligation or compulsion. It challenges believers to evaluate their own relationship with possessions and to consider how they might leverage what they have for lasting impact. [10:12]
Psalm 39:6 (ESV)
"Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath! Selah Surely a man goes about as a shadow! Surely for nothing they are in turmoil; man heaps up wealth and does not know who will gather!"
Reflection: What is one possession or resource you currently hold tightly that you feel God is inviting you to steward more freely for the sake of others? How might you begin to do that this week?
Day 3: Suffering as Faithful Participation in Christ’s Life
Suffering for the sake of Christ is not a sign of failure but a profound mark of faithfulness and union with Jesus. The apostles rejoiced in their hardships, seeing them as a privilege to bear witness to the resurrection and to share in Christ’s sufferings. This perspective transforms suffering from a burden into a refining process that strengthens faith and draws believers closer to God’s heart.
Enduring persecution or hardship is not about relying on personal strength but about trusting the power of the Holy Spirit to sustain and empower. This faithfulness under pressure becomes a powerful testimony to the world and a source of spiritual growth within the church. [15:26]
2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)
"But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."
Reflection: Reflect on a current or past difficulty you have faced for your faith. How can you reframe that experience as an opportunity to participate more deeply in Christ’s life and witness?
Day 4: The Church’s Power Lies in Spirit, Not Status
The influence of the church does not depend on cultural power, privilege, or prestige but on the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. Even when marginalized or opposed, the church can thrive and transform the world by faithfully proclaiming the resurrection and loving one another deeply. This calling requires resisting complacency and trusting that God’s power is perfected in human weakness.
The early church’s experience reminds believers that external circumstances do not determine spiritual vitality or mission effectiveness. Instead, reliance on the Spirit enables the church to be a transformative presence in any context, no matter how hostile or indifferent the culture may be. [21:10]
Zechariah 4:6 (ESV)
"Then he said to me, ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.’"
Reflection: Identify one area where you may be tempted to rely on your own strength or status rather than the Spirit’s power. How can you practically surrender that area to God’s Spirit today?
Day 5: Love as the Visible Mark of Resurrection People
The defining characteristic of Jesus’ followers is their love for one another, modeled after Christ’s sacrificial love. This love is not sentimental but demonstrated through practical care, unity, service, and forgiveness. It is by this love that the world recognizes the church and sees the hope of the resurrection made visible.
Such love requires intentionality and humility, calling believers to embody Christ’s heart in tangible ways. It is both a witness to the gospel and a source of strength for the community, enabling the church to live out its mission authentically and powerfully. [22:34]
1 John 3:16-18 (ESV)
"By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth."
Reflection: Who in your community or church family needs to experience Christ’s love through your practical actions this week? What specific step can you take to show that love tangibly?
Quotes
We continue in this Easter season of resurrection hope and promise that we are in, recognizing that we don't just celebrate the resurrection of Jesus on one day, just one day a year. We celebrate it throughout the year, every Sunday, reminding ourselves of the good news that Christ is not dead. He has risen from the grave, and that because He has risen, we have that resurrection hope as His resurrection people living in this day and this time, knowing, knowing for certain Jesus is still at work in and through this world. [00:01:01] (37 seconds)
We know Jesus appeared to some disciples on that Easter day who were walking on the road to Emmaus. We know Jesus showed up one time when the disciples were out fishing in the Sea of Galilee. And we know of all these other places and places and times where the resurrected Jesus showed up to other people who were not expecting the resurrection, but who became witnesses of that resurrection and became proclaimers of that resurrection to the world around them. Even if proclaiming that message of resurrection caused them to suffer for the sake of that good news that Jesus has risen, that death is defeated, that Satan is conquered, that sin has been paid for, Jesus has risen indeed. [00:01:19] (47 seconds)
But I want us to not lament and simply thinking that we're losing or that the church of God is not as significant. No, no, no. Jesus said the gates of hell would not prevail against His church. The reports of the demise of the church are a little bit exaggerated. But in fact, I think if we look back in this first century church, we can be encouraged and challenged perhaps how we are that church today in 2025. [00:06:38] (26 seconds)
I'm not going to do the consumption assumption that everything that's been given to me is for my pleasure, for my enjoyment, for my protection, for my what -ifs. No, I'm going to live in a way that recognizes that my God has sent his very own son who gave his life as a ransom for many and for me. And because of that, I want others to know it. And so, I'm willing to leverage what is temporary for that which is eternal. And so, I'm not going to hold tightly to my stuff. I'm going to hold loosely to my stuff because I'm holding tightly to Jesus. [00:08:44] (33 seconds)
That resurrection cornerstone on which the church is built, on the confession that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and that Jesus Christ is not dead and buried in a tomb, that the work he had accomplished on the cross was complete and full. It was finished. And through that empty grave and that resurrected Jesus, we have that confidence that death has been defeated. Sin has been paid for. Satan has been conquered. Jesus is risen. [00:09:33] (29 seconds)
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